Pharmaceutical compositions comprising silica microspheres

ABSTRACT

Topical vaginal compositions are disclosed herein which include silica microspheres and an active ingredient in the amount of 0.001 to 15.0% w/w selected from estradiol, metronidazole, clindamycin, butoconazole, and combinations thereof. The topical compositions provide sustained release of the active ingredient so as to reduce skin irritation.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/551,155, filed Nov. 24, 2014, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/783,895, filed Apr. 12, 2007, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,920,821, issued Dec. 30, 2014, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/791,902, filed Apr. 14, 2006, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/817,247, filed Jun. 29, 2006, which are all incorporated hereto by reference.

BACKGROUND

Many topical pharmaceutical products such as solids, semisolids (ointments, creams, gels), liquids and suspensions contain ingredients which may cause irritation and various inflammation symptoms when applied to the skin or mucosa.

The severity of irritation to the susceptible user may range from subclinical to mild to severe. Typical symptoms of irritation include itching (pruritus), stinging, burning, tingling, “tightness,” erythema (redness) or edema (swelling). The irritation response may be due to the direct effect on the skin of certain topical product ingredients. Many active ingredients used in topical products are known irritants or are potentially irritating, for example, retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, 5-flurouracil, hydroquinone and the like.

Retinoids are a group of compounds consisting of vitamin A and its derivatives which are very sensitive to oxidative degradation and exposure to visible light. Retinoids are effective as keratolytic agents. They are used topically to retard and ameliorate photoaging of facial skin, to treat actinic keratosis, acne vulgaris, psoriasis and warts. The main drawback of retinoids topical products, and more particularly of products including tretinoin, is skin irritation.

Hydroquinone is a reduced quinone, well-recognized as a skin-lightening agent. When topically applied, it produces a reversible depigmentation of the skin by inhibiting the enzymatic oxidation of tyrosine to 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine, as well as suppressing other metabolic processes of melanocytes. In a clinical setting, hydroquinone is employed to treat hypermelanosis. Hydroquinone is considered an irritant in topical applications.

Benzoyl peroxide is an antibacterial agent with demonstrated activity against Propionibacterium acnes. This action, combined with the mild keratolytic effect of benzoyl peroxide is believed to be responsible for its usefulness in acne. The main side effects of benzoyl peroxide topical formulations are redness, dryness or peeling of skin, burning and itching, and swelling.

5-Fluorouracil is an antineoplastic antimetabolite. 5-Fluorouracil interferes with the synthesis of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and to a lesser extent inhibits the formation of ribonucleic acid (RNA). 5-Fluorouracil is used for topical treatment of multiple actinic or solar keratoses. In the 5% strength it is also useful in the treatment of superficial basal cell carcinomas when conventional methods are impractical, such as with multiple lesions or difficult treatment sites. The use of compositions comprising 5-Fluorouracil may cause scaling, swelling, urticaria and skin rash.

Several attempts have been made to reduce the undesirable side-effects of the above active ingredients. Thus, for example Retin-A Micro® (tretinoin) 0.1% gel, Differin® (adapalene) gel, Efudex® (Valeant) (fluorouracil) solution and cream and EpiQuin™ Micro. However, none of these are products is completely satisfactory, so the search for a better product is still on.

It will be advantageous to prepare a composition for topical application having good stability, which will reduce irritation of the skin or mucosa.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, pharmaceutical compositions, in particular sustained release vaginal compositions, for topical application are disclosed. The sustained release compositions include 0.001 to 15.0% w/w of an active ingredient selected from a steroid, an antibiotic, an antifungal, or any combination thereof, and silica microspheres, formed prior to contact with the active ingredient, impregnated with the active ingredient. Accordingly, some of the active ingredient is free in the composition, and the active ingredient impregnated in the silica microspheres provides sustained release of the active ingredient. In one embodiment, the active ingredient is present as 0.001% to 5% w/w/of the composition, more preferably 0.001% to 2% w/w of the composition. In one embodiment, the silica microspheres have a mean microsphere size in the range of 0.5 micron to 40 microns. In another embodiment, the silica microspheres have a mean microsphere size in the range of 1 micron to 20 microns.

In one embodiment, the steroid is estradiol. In one embodiment, the antibiotic is metronidazole and/or clindamycin. In one embodiment, the antifungal is butoconazole.

In one embodiment, the composition is formulated as a foam or a semisolid form. The semisolid form includes a gel, a cream, a paste, a lotion, an ointment, a shampoo, a semisolid powder or a suspension.

The composition may also include one or more of a solvent, a preservative, an emulsifier, an emollient or humectant, and water. If the solvent is present, it may be selected from the group consisting of isopropanol, oleic acid, glycerol monooleate, oleyl alcohol, propylene glycol, isopropyl myristate, and combinations thereof.

In another aspect, methods of treatment of the vaginal area are disclosed. The methods include providing a sustained release vaginal composition as discussed above and below that has 0.001 to 15% w/w of a steroid, an antibiotic, an antifungal, and combinations thereof impregnated in silica microspheres, and applying the sustained release vaginal composition to the vaginal area as a single dose when the active ingredient is an antifungal or once daily for at most 14 days when the active ingredient is a steroid or an antibiotic. When the active ingredient is a steroid, estradiol, the method treats vulvar and vaginal atrophy. When the active ingredient is an antibiotic, metronidazole and/or clindamycin, the method treats bacterial vaginosis and bacterial vaginal infections and/or vulvovaginal candidiasis. When the active ingredient is an antifungal, butoconazole, the method treats vulvovaginal candidiasis.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the following detailed description, reference will be made to the annexed drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a graphical illustration of the release profile of a composition comprising tretinoin through a synthetic membrane in comparison to the release profile of Retin-A Micro gel.

FIG. 2 shows a close-up view of a sample of the formulation including the silica microspheres and tretinoin according to Example 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention provides a topical composition which releases the active ingredient in a sustained manner to so as prevent irritation or inflammation caused by the active compound. This composition may be used for skin application as well as for mucosal, nasal, and/or vaginal application.

This invention relates in general to compositions comprising silica microspheres for topical application of pharmaceuticals. Such compositions are smooth and easy to spread and provide a non-tacky, velvety after-feel due to the presence of the silica microspheres.

In an embodiment of the invention, the composition is formulated in a semisolid or a liquid form, such as for example without being limited, a gel, a cream, a lotion, a foam, a paste, an ointment, a shampoo, a suspension or a semisolid powder. In another embodiment, the composition is formed as a spray or an aerosol. In another embodiment, the composition is formed as a suppository.

In an embodiment of the invention, this invention relates to compositions for topical use comprising silica microspheres which are impregnated with an active agent.

Throughout the application, “silica microspheres” means, silicon dioxide discrete spherical particles ranging in average size from 0.5 to 40 microns.

In an embodiment of the invention, the silica microspheres may range in average size from 1 to 20 microns.

The invention is based on the observation that formulations comprising silica microspheres afford optimal release of the active ingredient, according to the embodiments of the invention.

According to some embodiments of the invention, there are provided compositions for topical application of a pharmaceutical active agent, which comprise silica microspheres with an active ingredient in amount of 0.01 to 15% w/w in a gel phase.

The active ingredient may be any active ingredient used for treating skin or other topical disorders.

In some embodiments of the invention, the active ingredient may be for example, without limitation, a vitamin, a keratolytic agent, a steroid, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, an antibiotic, a tranquilizer, an antihistaminic, an antifungal, an antibacterial, an antiviral, an anti-itching agent, a wart-treatment agent, a disinfectant, an immunosuppressant, an anticancer or a local anesthetic or combination thereof.

In an embodiment of the invention, the composition may comprise an active ingredient, which can be for example, without limitation, vitamin A, a retinoid, tretinoin, adapalene, tazarotene, hydroquinone, benzoyl peroxide, 5-fluorouracil, azelaic acid or any combination thereof.

In another embodiment, the active ingredient is a steroid, an antibiotic, and/or an antifungal selected for treatment of vulvar and vaginal atrophy, bacterial vaginosis and bacterial vaginal infections, or antifungal local treatment for vulvovaginal candidiasis (an infection caused by Candida). One such suitable steroid is estradiol. The antibiotic may be selected from metronidazole and/or clindamycin. One suitable antifungal is butoconazole. As noted above, in one embodiment, the composition comprises silica microspheres with an active ingredient in an amount of 0.01 to 15% w/w in the composition. However, with these active ingredient, the concentration may be even lower, such as 0.001 to 15% w/w of the composition, more preferably 0.001 to 5% w/w of the composition, and even more preferably 0.001 to 2% w/w of the composition.

The composition of the invention may be used to treat skin disorders and diseases, including atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, rosacea, cancer, actinic keratosis, acne, skin pigmentation and other types of skin inflammations or viral, fungal or bacterial skin infections.

Depending upon whether the active ingredient is hydrophobic or hydrophilic, it will be present in an oily or aqueous phase, respectively.

In an embodiment of the invention, the retinoids may be used for the treatment of acne. Retinoids may be also useful in treatment of skin photoaging and sun damage. Many individuals who have had a good deal of sun exposure will show the following gross cutaneous alterations: wrinkling, leatheriness, yellowing, looseness, roughness, dryness, mottling (hyperpigmentation) and various premalignant growths (often subclinical). These changes are most prominent in light-skinned persons who burn easily and tan poorly. These cumulative effects of sunlight are often referred to as “photoaging” skin.

When considering the use of retinoids in skin care products, it is believed that certain retinoids such as retinol (Vitamin A alcohol), retinal (Vitamin A aldehyde) and retinyl esters such as retinyl acetate and retinyl palmitate would be suitable.

Due to retinoids' sensitivity to light and air, and their skin irritability, much attention in topical products containing such compounds is directed toward providing a composition which has a prolonged shelf life and can deliver active ingredients in slow-release pattern, to prevent skin irritation.

In an embodiment of the invention, the composition comprises an active ingredient, which is a retinoic acid or a derivative thereof.

In another embodiment of the invention, the composition comprises active ingredient, which is tretinoin.

In an embodiment of the invention, the amount of the active ingredient is 0.04-0.3% w/w.

In an embodiment of the invention, the amount of the active ingredient is 0.075-0.125% w/w.

In an embodiment of the invention, the amount of the active ingredient is 0.1-1.0% w/w.

In an embodiment of the invention, the amount of the active ingredient is 1.0-15% w/w.

In an embodiment of the invention, the amount of the tretinoin may be between about 0.05-0.3% w/w.

In an embodiment of the invention, the active ingredient is benzoyl peroxide. The concentration of the benzoyl peroxide may range between about 3-9% w/w.

In an embodiment of the invention, the active ingredient is hydroquinone. The concentration of the hydroquinone may be about 4% w/w.

In an embodiment of the invention, the active ingredient is 5-flurouracil. The concentration of the 5-flurouracil may be between about 0.5-5% w/w.

In an embodiment of the invention, formulation may comprise about 6% to 20% of an oily phase, excluding the active ingredient.

In an embodiment of the invention, formulation may comprise about 5% to 10% of an oily phase excluding the active ingredient.

The microsphere size in the compositions of the invention is in the size range of about 0.5 to about 40 microns. In an embodiment of the invention, the size range may be of about 1 to 20 microns.

In some embodiments of the invention, the composition may comprise a gelling agent.

The gelling agent of the invention, may be without limitation, a cellulose derivative such as methyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose and carboxymethyl cellulose salts, hydroxymethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), hydroxyethyl cellulose, tri-block copolymers (Poloxamer 407, for example), xanthan gum, a carrageenan, pectin, a mannan, curdlan, chondroitin sulfate, starch, galactan, dermatan sulfate, glycogen, gum arabic, a heparan sulfate, hyaluronic acid, hyaluronate sodium, tragacanth gum, hydroxyethyl cyamoposis gum, carboxymethyl cyamoposis gum, cyamoposis gum, a dextran, keratosulfate, chitosan, a carboxymethyl chitin, an agar, etc. One or more of the above may be used in admixture, or can be blended with thickeners and/or water-soluble polymers. Carbomer is an example of a thickening agent for use in such formulations, as set forth in examples 6 and 7 below.

In an embodiment of the invention, the gelling agent may be in an amount between 0.5-20% w/w. In another embodiment of the invention, the gelling agent may be in an amount between 5-15% w/w.

In an embodiment of the invention, the amount of the gelling agent may be 1-4% w/w. In another embodiment the amount may be 2.5% w/w.

In an embodiment of the invention the composition may further comprise solvent.

Further, the composition may comprise an antioxidant.

Further, the composition may comprise an antimicrobial preservative.

Further, the composition may comprise an emulsifier.

Further, the composition may comprise an emollient, humectant and water.

Suitable solvents include, but are not limited to alcohol, isopropanol, oleic acid, glycerol monooleate, oleyl alcohol, propylene glycol, isopropyl myristate or any combination thereof.

In some embodiments of the invention, the solvent may be in an amount of about 3 to 20%. In another embodiment, the solvent may be in an amount of about 4 to 15%. In another embodiment the solvent may be in an amount of about 6 to 10%.

In an embodiment of the invention when the solvent is oleic acid, the amount of the oleic acid may be about 2 to 10%. In another embodiment of the invention, the amount of the oleic acid is between 3 to 8%. In another embodiment the amount of the oleic acid is between 3 to 6%.

In an embodiment of the invention when the solvent, is isopropanol. The amount of the isopropanol may be about 2 to 20%. In another embodiment of the invention, the isopropanol may be in an amount of about 3 to 15%. In another embodiment the amount of the isopropanol may be between 4 to 10%. In another embodiment, the amount of the isopropanol may be between about 5-6%.

In an embodiment of the invention the active ingredient may be dissolved by combination of oleic acid and isopropanol.

In addition, compositions of the invention may also comprise conventional additives such as preservatives and antioxidants.

Typical preservatives include sorbic acid, thimerosal, benzyl alcohol, benzoic acid, chlorbutanol, maleic acid and methyl, ethyl, propyl or butyl parabens or any combination thereof.

In addition, compositions of the invention may also comprise a chelating agent of a polyamine carboxylic acid such as ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid (“EDTA”), or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

The antioxidant may be butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), alpha-tocopherol or alpha-tocopherol succinate, sodium ascorbate or any combination thereof.

In an embodiment of the invention, the antioxidant may be in an amount of about 0.001 to 1%. In another embodiment the antioxidant may be in an amount ranging from 0.01 to 0.1%. In another embodiment of the invention, the antioxidant may be in an amount of about 0.01 to 0.05%. In another embodiment, the amount of the antioxidant is about 0.02%.

The antimicrobial preservative should be chosen so as to fit topical administration, and one skilled in the art can conduct tests to routinely select specific antimicrobial preservative for this purpose. In an embodiment of the invention, the sorbic acid is in an amount of about 0.01 to 1%. In another embodiment the sorbic acid may be in an amount of about 0.02 to 0.5%. In another embodiment the sorbic acid may be in an amount of about 0.05 to 0.2%. In another embodiment, the amount of the sorbic acid is about 0.1%.

The antimicrobial preservative may be but is not limited to benzyl alcohol in an amount of about 0.1 to 5%. In another embodiment the amount of the benzyl alcohol may be of about 0.2 to 2%. In another embodiment the amount of the benzyl alcohol may be of about 0.5 to 1%. In another embodiment, the amount of the benzyl alcohol is about 0.8%.

In another embodiment, the preservative may be a paraben, for example, C₁-C₄ parabens. Parabens are useful antifungal preservative and slow the growth of many different kinds of bacteria, mold, and certain types of yeast.

Suitable emulsifiers in this embodiment include, but are not limited to, tri-block copolymers (Poloxamer 407, Poloxamer 188), Polyoxyl stearates (Polyoxyethylene-20 stearate—Mirj 49, etc), Polysorbates (Tween 80, Tween 60 and Tween 20), Sorbitane fatty acid esters (Span 60 or Span 80), POE alkyl ethers (Brij 97, etc.), POE alkylphenyl ethers (POE nonylphenyl ether, etc.), sucrose fatty acid ester.

The emulsifier may be Poloxamer 407 in an amount of about 0.2 to 5%. In another embodiment the emulsifier may be in an amount of about 0.2 to 2%. In another embodiment the emulsifier may be in an amount of about 0.5 to 1%. In another embodiment, the amount of the emulsifier is about 0.5%.

The emollient or humectant should be chosen so as to suitable for topical administration, and one skilled in the art can conduct tests to routinely select specific viscosity modifier for this purpose. Suitable emollient or humectant include, but are not limited to glycerin, propylene glycol, cyclomethicone, dimethicone copolyol or any combination thereof.

The emollient may be in an amount of about 1 to 30%. In another embodiment the amount of about 3 to 20%, preferably 4-15%.

The oily component without an active ingredient is typically present in an amount of about 10-30%, and may include oleic acid, isopropanol, BHT, sorbic acid.

In the following description and in the examples, concentrations will be indicated by wt % which denotes the concentration by weight of the component per 100 units weight of entire composition. All indicated concentrations should be understood as standing each by itself, and are not cumulative. It should be appreciated by the artisan, however, that there is some dependency between the concentrations of the components, e.g., higher concentrations of the oil will generally require higher concentrations of the emulsifier and surfactant.

In an embodiment of the invention, concentrations of the components are as follows: about 2 to 25% oily phase solvent; about 0.2 to 2% of the emulsifier, with about 0.2 to 1% being particularly preferred; about 0.01 to 1% for the antioxidant, with about 0.02 to 0.10% being particularly preferred; about 0.05 to 5% for the antimicrobial preservative, with about 0.1 to 1% being particularly preferred. For a topical gel application, about 0.2 to 15% of the gelling or thickening agent can be included.

In some embodiments of the invention there is provided a process for the preparation of a topical composition comprising silica microspheres in a gel preparation, about 0.05 to 20% w/w of a gelling agent, and an active ingredient in the amount of 0.01 to 0.5% w/w. The process comprises: mixing the gelling agent with water so as to form a gelling composition; adding emulsifier (Poloxamer 407 or Span 80) to the components of the oily phase; adding silica or silica suspended in water to the oily phase to impregnate silica microspheres with an active compound; and mixing said oily phase with the gelling composition.

The formulation process of the invention may further comprise adding preservatives and humectants to the resultant composition.

In an embodiment of the invention, the composition may comprise oleic acid 2-10% w/w, Isopropanol 2-20% w/w, Sorbic acid 0.01-1% w/w, active ingredient 0.01-10.0%, silica microspheres 0.2-5.5% w/w, carboxymethyl cellulose sodium 0.5-4.0% w/w, glycerin 3-20% w/w, benzyl alcohol 0.1-5.0% w/w, Poloxamer 407 0.2-20% w/w and purified water.

In another embodiment of the invention, the composition may comprise oleic acid 3-8% w/w, Isopropanol 3-15% w/w, butylated hydroxytoluene 0.01-0.05% w/w, sorbic acid 0.02-1.0% w/w, active ingredient 0.01-10.0%, silica microspheres 0.2-1.5% w/w, carboxymethyl cellulose sodium 1.0-3.0% w/w, benzyl alcohol 0.2-2.0% w/w, Poloxamer 407 0.2-15% w/w, glycerin 3-15% w/w, EDTA, and purified water.

In an embodiment of the invention, the composition may comprise oleic acid 4-6% w/w, isopropanol 5-10% w/w, butylated hydroxytoluene 0.01-0.03% w/w, sorbic acid 0.05-0.2% w/w, active ingredient 0.01-4% w/w, silica microspheres 0.25-1.0% w/w, carboxymethyl cellulose sodium 2.0-2.5% w/w, glycerin 3-15% w/w, benzyl alcohol 0.5-1.0% w/w, sodium hydroxide or trolamine to adjust pH and purified water.

In an embodiment of the invention, the invention is directed to a method for treating acne vulgaris, the method comprising administering an effective amount of the composition of the invention, wherein the active ingredient is tretinoin. The amount of the tretinoin may be 0.1%.

In an embodiment of the invention, the invention is directed to a method for depigmentation, the method comprising administering an effective amount of the composition of the invention, wherein the active ingredient is hydroquinone. The amount of the hydroquinone may be 4%.

In an embodiment of the invention, the invention is directed to a method for treating actinic keratoses, the method comprising administering an effective amount of the composition of the invention, wherein the active ingredient is 5-fluorouracil. The amount of the 5-fluorouracil may be 0.5-5%.

In an embodiment of the invention, the invention is directed to a method for treating actinic keratoses, the method comprising administering an effective amount of the composition of the invention, wherein the active ingredient is benzoyl peroxide. The amount of the benzoyl peroxide may be 3-12%. In an embodiment of the invention, the amount of the benzoyl peroxide is up to and including 10%.

The invention is illustrated with reference to the above-mentioned examples, which are to be construed in a strictly non-limiting manner.

EXAMPLES

Examples 1-4 are topical compositions comprising tretinoin. Ingredients amounts are in weight percentages. The compositions were prepared according to the processes described in detail in the examples below. It is noted that the following examples do not limit in any way the scope of the present invention.

Example 1

A composition comprising Tretinoin as an active ingredient:

Ingredients Concentration (w/w %) Oleic acid 5.00 Isopropanol 8.00 BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) 0.02 Sorbic acid 0.10 Tretinoin 0.10 Silica microspheres 0.70 1 cellulose sodiumcarboxymethyl CMC Na 2.40 Glycerin 5.00 Benzyl alcohol 0.80 Poloxamer 407 0.50 Water A. P 70.38 Water B. P 7.00

The process for the preparation of the composition was carried out as follows:

-   1. CMC Na (carboxymethyl cellulose sodium) was added to water A and     was stirred vigorously until gel was formed; -   2. Glycerin and benzyl alcohol were added to stage 1 and mixed for     ten minutes; -   3. Oleic acid, isopropanol, BHT, sorbic acid, Poloxamer 407 and     tretinoin were heated to 50° C. while stirring, until clear solution     was obtained. Then the solution was cooled to room temperature; -   4. Silica Microspheres in water B were added to the cooled oily     phase and resultant mixture was stirred for at least one hour; -   5. Stage 4 was added to the mixer and stirred for one hour under     vacuum.

An opaque yellowish gel was obtained. A close-up view of the formulation including the silica microspheres is attached hereto as FIG. 2.

Example 2

A composition comprising Tretinoin as an active ingredient:

Ingredients Concentration (w/w %) Oleic acid 4.00 Isopropanol 6.00 BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) 0.02 Sorbic acid 0.10 Tretinoin 0.10 Silica microspheres 0.70 Natrosol (HEC) 1.50 Xanthan gum 0.80 Trolamine 1.20 Benzyl alcohol 0.80 Glycerin 15.00 Water q.s. 100%

The process for the preparation of the composition was as follows:

-   1. Trolamine, Natrosol (HEC) and xanthan gum were added gradually to     the water while stirring at high speed using mixer propeller; -   2. The mixture of oleic acid, isopropanol, BHT, sorbic acid and     tretinoin was heated to 50° C. while stirring then cooled to the     room temperature; -   3. Silica microspheres were added to the stage 2 and the resultant     mixture was stirred for at least one hour; -   4. Benzyl alcohol and Glycerin were added to stage 1 -   5. Stage 4 was added to the mixer reactor and stirred vigorously.

An opaque yellowish gel was obtained.

Example 3

A composition comprising Tretinoin as active ingredient:

Ingredients Concentration (w/w %) Oleic acid 4.00 Isopropanol 5.00 BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) 0.02 Sorbic acid 0.10 Tretinoin 0.10 Silica microspheres 0.50-1.00 Poloxamer 407 A 12.00-15.00 Poloxamer 407 B 0.2-1.0 Benzyl alcohol 0.80 Glycerin 15.00  Sodium hydroxide, diluted Adjust pH Water q.s. 100%

The process for the preparation of the composition was as follows:

-   1. Poloxamer 407 A was added to the water while stirring at high     speed using mixer propeller; -   2. The mixture of oleic acid, isopropanol, BHT, sorbic acid,     Poloxamer B and tretinoin was heated to 50° C. while stirring and     then was cooled to the room temperature; -   3. Silica Microspheres were added to the stage 2 and resultant     mixture was stirred for at least one hour; -   4. Benzyl alcohol and glycerin were added to stage 1 and stirred; -   5. Stage 3 was added to the mixer reactor and stirred vigorously; -   6. Sodium hydroxide was added for pH adjustment.

An opaque yellowish gel was obtained.

Example 4

A composition comprising Tretinoin as active ingredient:

Ingredient Concentration (w/w %) Oleic acid 5.00 Isopropanol 10.00 BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) 0.02 Sorbic acid 0.10 Tretinoin 0.10 Silica microspheres 0.70 CMC Na (carboxymethyl cellulose sodium) 2.40 Natrosol (HBC) 0.50 Glycerin 5.00 Benzyl alcohol 0.80 Poloxamer 407 0.20 P. Water q.s. 100%

The process for the preparation of the composition was as follows:

-   1. CMC Na (carboxymethyl cellulose sodium) and Natrosol (HEC) were     dispersed in water until a clear gel was formed -   2. Glycerin and benzyl alcohol were added to stage 1 and mixed; -   3. Oleic acid, isopropanol, BHT, sorbic acid, Poloxamer 407 and     tretinoin were heated to 50° C. while stirring until clear solution     was obtained. Then the solution was cooled to the room temperature; -   4. Silica Microspheres were added to the cooled oily phase and     resultant mixture was stirred for at least one hour; -   5. Stage 4 was added to the stage 2 and stirred for one hour under     vacuum.

An opaque yellowish gel was obtained.

Example 5

A composition comprising Hydroquinone as an active ingredient:

Ingredients Concentration (w/w %) Oleic acid 3.00 Isopropanol 8.00 BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) 0.02 Sorbic acid 0.10 Vitamin A 0.10 Poloxamer 407 0.50 Hydroquinone 4.00 Silica microspheres A 1.00 Silica microspheres B 0.50 Balnose - CMC 2.00 EDTA 0.04 Benzyl alcohol 0.80 Glycerin 5.00 Water A 30.34 Water B 45.00

The process for the preparation of the composition was as follows:

-   1. To water A the following components were added: EDTA, glycerin     and hydroquinone. The mixture was heated to the 60° C. under     stirring, and after the mixture was clear, it was cooled to the 40°     C.; -   2. Silica microspheres A were added to stage 1 and stirred; -   3. The mixture of oleic acid, isopropanol, BHT, sorbic acid,     Poloxamer 407 and Vitamin A was heated to 50° C. while stirring     until all components were dissolved; -   4. Silica microspheres B were added to stage 3 and stirred; -   5. Stage 4 was added to the stage 2 and stirred for at least one     hour; -   6. Blanose (CMC) was added to water B and stirred by using a mixer     propeller for the complete dispersion; -   7. Benzyl alcohol was added to stage 6; -   8. Stage 7 was added to stage 5 and the mixture was homogenized.

Example 6

A composition comprising 10% Benzoyl peroxide (BPO) as active ingredient:

Ingredients Concentration (w/w %) Benzoyl peroxide (BPO) 10.00 Ethoxydiglycol 19.50 Glycerin 8.00 Silica microspheres 5.50 Carbomer 0.60 Imidazolidinyl Urea 0.30 PEG-40 Hydrogenated 0.20 Disodium EDTA 0.10 Sodium Hydroxide 0.16 Water q.s. 100%

Example 7

A composition comprising 5% Benzoyl Peroxide (BPO) as active ingredient:

Ingredients Concentration (w/w %) Benzoyl peroxide (BPO) 5.00 Ethoxydiglycol 9.90 Glycerin 8.00 Silica microspheres 2.50 Carbomer 0.60 Imidazolidinyl Urea 0.30 PEG-40 Hydrogenated 0.20 Disodium EDTA 0.10 Sodium Hydroxide 0.16 Water q.s. 100%

The process for the preparation of the compositions listed above was as follows:

-   1. Disodium EDTA and Carbomer were added to the water and     homogenized; -   2. Glycerin was added to stage 1 and the mixture was stirred; -   3. PED-40 hydrogenated castor oil was heated to 40° C. separately     and after clear liquid was obtained, it was added to stage 2; -   4. 20% solution of sodium hydroxide was added for neutralization; -   5. A solution of imidazolidinyl urea in water was added to stage 4; -   6. Benzoyl peroxide was added to ethoxydiglycol separately and     passed through Fryma colloid mill, twice; -   7. Silica microspheres were added to the stage 6 and resultant     mixture was stirred; -   8. Stage 7 was added to stage 5 and the mixture was homogenized.

Example 8

A composition comprising Adapalene as an active ingredient:

Ingredients Concentration (w/w %) Mineral oil 6.00 Isopropyl Myristate 3.00 BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) 0.02 Sorbic acid 0.10 Adapalene 0.10 Silica microspheres 0.70 CMC Na (carboxymethyl cellulose sodium) 2.40 Poloxamer 188 1.00 Benzyl alcohol 0.80 Propylene glycol 10.00 Water q.s. 100%

Example 9

Release Rate of Tretinoin from the Tretinoin Gel Formulation of Example 1

To compare the release rate of Tretinoin from Retin-A Micro gel formulation versus tretinoin gel formulations with silica microspheres, an in-vitro test through a synthetic membrane (Supor 450) was performed. As is shown in FIG. 1, the release profile of the active compound from the formulation of Example 1 was identical to that of Tretinoin form Retin A-Micro formulation.

Example 10

Comparative Irritation Test in Rabbit (Draiz Test)

No erythema 0 Very slight erythema (barely perceptible) 1 Well-defined erythema 2 Moderate to severe erythema 3 Severe erythema (beef redness) to slight eschar formation 4 (injuries in depth)

A 10-day Repeat Dermal Tolerance study in New Zealand White Rabbits is conducted to assess the dermal tolerance of tretinoin formulations (compositions of the present invention and brand) during which the invention's formulations are applied repeatedly on the skin of rabbits for ten consecutive days. A quantity of 0.5 g of each test item formulation is applied to the prepared area of skin and spread uniformly on the skin to cover an approximately 6 cm² (2×3 cm) patch. The treated patches are then left open (un-occluded). The test item formulations are applied each morning and, after a 4 hour contact period, all the treated areas and untreated control areas are washed thoroughly with de-ionized water in order to remove the test item residue. The treatment is performed for 10 consecutive days. The skin reaction is assessed according to the numerical scoring system of Draize et. al (1944), as defined in the following tables:

1. Erythema and Eschar Formation (Max Possible Score—4)

No edema 0 Very slight edema (barely perceptible) 1 Slight edema (edges of area well defined by definite raising) 2 Moderate edema (raised approximately 1 mm) 3 Severe edema (raised more than 1 mm and extending beyond 4 area of exposure)

Two methods are used to evaluate the irritation potential of the compositions of the present invention and brand:

The mean scores of all the rabbits for erythema and edema, for all ten days of treatment and three days post treatment, are added up separately, and the highest mean score is used to calculate the irritation potential of the test item.

The skin scores of all the rabbits are added up and divided by the total number of observations, to arrive at the mean; this is then used to calculate the irritation potential of the test item.

Examples 11-14 are vaginal formulations comprising preformed silica microspheres, formed prior to contact with the active ingredient, are impregnated with the active ingredient, which leaves some of the active ingredient free in the composition as shown in FIG. 2. The active ingredient that is impregnated in the silica microspheres provide sustained release of the active ingredient. The impregnation of the active ingredient in the silica microspheres may be carried out similar to the procedures set forth in Examples 5 or 7, selecting the one that is most appropriate. Any percentages expressed herein are understood to be wt/wt of the composition, even if not expressly stated.

Example 11 Treatment for Bacterial Vaginosis and Bacterial Vaginal Infections

Name Composition (% w/w) Metronidazole 0.75 Edetate Disodium Dihydrate 0.05 Propylene Glycol 3.0 Methylparaben 0.08 Propylparaben 0.02 Carbomer 2.0 Sodium Hydroxide 0.1 Silicon dioxide 0.25-1.0 Purified Water q.s. 100 (94.0) Total 100

A comparative of the formulation of Example 11 against METROGEL® vaginal cream (1%, once daily for 5 days), a commercially available vaginal cream by Galderma Laboratories, L.P., shows that the formulation of Example 11 has a lower concentration, for example 0.75%. Moreover, the use of the porous, preformed silica microspheres enables a shorter treatment period because of the sustained release of the active ingredient. The expected treatment with the formulation of Example 11 is once daily for 3 days. Two days less than the treatment cycle for METROGEL® vaginal cream. Moreover, the formulation of Example 11 has bio-adhesive characteristics generally attributed to the presence of the Carbomer, which helps maintain the formulation at the area to be treated. For example, when topically applied within the vaginal, the formulation of Example 11 has reduced leakage, which is a benefit to the user.

A comparison of the formulation of Example 11 to NUVESSA™ metronidazole vaginal gel (1.3%, single application only) by Allegan again reveals that a lower concentration of the active can be used when impregnated in the porous, preformed silica microspheres, for example 0.75%.

Example 12 Treatment for Bacterial Vaginosis and Bacterial Vaginal Infections and/or Vulvovaginal Candidiasis

Name Composition (% w/w) Clindamycin Phosphate 1.0-2.0 Edetate Disodium Dihydrate 0.05 Propylene Glycol 3.0 Methylparaben 0.08 Propylparaben 0.02 Carbomer 2.0 Sodium Hydroxide 0.1 Silicon dioxide 0.25-1.0  Purified Water q.s. 100 (94.0) Total 100

A comparative study against CLINDESSE® vaginal cream (2%, single application dose) by Perrigo Company plc was compared to the formulation of Example 12. The impregnation of the clindamycin in the porous, preformed silica microspheres enabled for the option of less active ingredient, for example, 1.75% and 1.5%. The expected treatment with the formulation of Example 12 is also a single dose.

Example 13 Treatment for Vulvar and Vaginal Atrophy

Name Composition (% w/w) Estradiol 0.005-0.015 Polycarbofil 2.25 Glycerin 14 Mineral Oil 4.5 Carbomer 1.5 Sorbic Acid 0.09 Hydrogenated Palm Oil 1.12 Silicon dioxide 0.25-1.0  NaOH q.s. Purified Water q.s. Total 100

A comparative study against ESTRACE® cream (0.01% estradiol), a commercially available vaginal cream by Allergan was compared to the formulation of Example 13. The impregnation of the estradiol in the porous, preformed silica microspheres enables use of less active ingredient, for example 0.005% estradiol and 0.0075% estradiol, respectively, for separate trials. The recommended dose for ESTRACE® cream is once daily for 14 to 28 days. The expected treatment with the formulation of Example 13 is one daily for 7 to 10 days.

Example 14 Treatment for Vulvovaginal Candidiasis

Name Composition (% w/w) Butoconazole Nitrate 1.5-2.0 Cetyl Alcohol 15 Glyceryl Stearate and PEG-100 Stearate 5 Methylparaben 0.08 Propylparaben 0.02 Mineral Oil 10 Polysorbate 60 5.0 Propylene Glycol 20.0 Sorbitan Monostearate 5.0 Silicon dioxide 0.25-1.0  Stearyl alcohol 4 Purified Water q.s. Total 100

A comparative study against GYNAZOLE 1® vaginal cream (2%, single application dose) by Perrigo Company plc was compared to the formulation of Example 14. The impregnation of the butoconazole in the porous, preformed silica microspheres enabled for the option of less active ingredient, for example, 1.75% and 1.5%. The expected treatment with the formulation of Example 14 is also a single dose.

The advantages of the vaginal compositions disclosed herein include reduced skin irritation because of the extended release characteristics provided by the preformed, porous silica microspheres. The porous silica microspheres also enable a lower concentration of active ingredient with better efficacy, often over a shorter treatment cycle. In most cases where more than a single application is recommended, the formulations disclosed herein can reduce the treatment cycle by 2 days to 18 days, depending upon the commercially available product's recommended treatment cycle. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A sustained release vaginal composition for topical application comprising: 0.001 to 15.0% w/w of an active ingredient selected from a steroid, an antibiotic, an antifungal, and combinations thereof; and silica microspheres, formed prior to contact with the active ingredient, impregnated with the active ingredient.
 2. The sustained release composition of claim 1, wherein some of the active ingredient is free in the composition, and the active ingredient impregnated in the silica microspheres provides sustained release of the active ingredient.
 3. The sustained release composition of claim 1, wherein the active ingredient is present as 0.001 to 5% w/w of the composition.
 4. The sustained release composition of claim 1, wherein the steroid is estradiol, the antibiotic is metronidazole and clindamycin, and the antifungal is butoconazole.
 5. The sustained release composition of claim 1, wherein said sustained release composition is formulated in a semisolid form.
 6. The sustained release composition of claim 5, wherein the semisolid form is a gel, a cream, a paste, a lotion, an ointment, a shampoo, a semisolid powder or a suspension.
 7. The sustained release composition of claim 1, wherein the silica microspheres have a mean microsphere size in the range of 0.5 micron to 40 microns.
 8. The sustained release composition of claim 1, further comprising one or more of a solvent, a preservative, an emulsifier, an emollient or humectant, and water.
 9. The sustained release composition of claim 8, wherein the solvent is selected from the group consisting of isopropanol, oleic acid, glycerol monooleate, oleyl alcohol, propylene glycol, isopropyl myristate, and combinations thereof.
 10. The sustained release composition of claim 1, wherein the composition treats vulvar and vaginal atrophy, bacterial vaginosis and bacterial infections, or vulvovaginal candidiasis.
 11. A method of treatment of the vaginal area, the method comprising: providing a sustained release vaginal composition for topical application comprising: 0.001 to 15.0% w/w of an active ingredient selected from a steroid, an antibiotic, an antifungal, and combinations thereof; and silica microspheres, formed prior to contact with the active ingredient, impregnated with the active ingredient; applying the sustained release vaginal composition to the vaginal area as a single dose when the active ingredient is an antifungal or once daily for at most 14 days when the active ingredient is a steroid or an antibiotic.
 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the active ingredient comprises the steroid, the steroid comprising estradiol, and wherein the method treats vulvar and vaginal atrophy.
 13. The method of claim 11, wherein the active ingredient comprises the antibiotic, the antibiotic comprising metronidazole and/or clindamycin, and wherein the method treats bacterial vaginosis and bacterial vaginal infections and/or vulvovaginal candidiasis.
 14. The method of claim 11, wherein the active ingredient comprises the antifungal, the antifungal comprising butoconazole, and wherein the method treats vulvovaginal candidiasis.
 15. The method of claim 11, wherein some of the active ingredient is free in the composition, and the active ingredient impregnated in the silica microspheres provides sustained release of the active ingredient.
 16. The method of claim 11, wherein the active ingredient is present as 0.001 to 5% w/w of the composition.
 17. The method of claim 11, wherein applying the sustained release vaginal composition comprises topical application of a semisolid form of the sustained release vaginal composition.
 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the semisolid form is a gel, a cream, a paste, a lotion, an ointment, a shampoo, a semisolid powder or a suspension.
 19. The method of claim 11, wherein the silica microspheres have a mean microsphere size in the range of 0.5 micron to 40 microns.
 20. The method of claim 11, wherein the said sustained release vaginal composition further comprises one or more of a solvent, a preservative, an emulsifier, an emollient or humectant, and water. 